OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Repairs at Ocala’s Wetland Recharge Park is forcing the closure of some parts of the park.
City officials say a portion of the park is closed for “necessary repairs” for an open subsidence which the U.S. Geological Society describes as a “gradual settling or sudden sinking of the Earth’s surface.”
The city says a few months ago, nearly 1.5 million gallons of recycled water spilled into the Upper Floridian Aquifer (UFA) at the park. A news release on January 29 says the spill happened when the subsurface subsidence formed in Wetland Cell 1. It also stated the water had been treated and presented no danger to the public.
Gabriela Sullivan is Ocala’s Water Resources Conservation Coordinator. She says “subsurface subsidences are an anticipated component of the park” due to the underground topography in the area.
| WATCH: Discover the Ocala Wetland Recharge Park
City officials say the park is still open to visitors. However, some trails and educational exhibits are closed to accommodate equipment and crews.
To see a map of the open trails you can view the park’s Facebook page or click here. You can also find a map at the information station located at the park.
“All visitors are asked to avoid the subsidences and obey trail closures. During this time, there may be dust and noise around the park. All necessary actions will be taken to minimize disturbances to wildlife,” said the city.
City officials say all trails should be re-opened by early next week. The park’s hours of operation are from sunrise to sunset.